Dr. Sachi Murasugi

My parents started me on violin when I was 3 years old. I always liked it, but was never serious about it until high school when my violin teacher encouraged me to pursue a professional career.

What inspires you?

I get a lot of inspiration from hearing other musicians — either through recordings or live performances. Also inspiring is the repertoire itself — the music of great composers such as Beethoven and Mozart.

What are the challenges of creating your art?

One of my biggest challenges is maintaining a daily practice schedule. I like to practice a couple hours a day even if it means starting after I put the kids to bed. Also, string players are accustomed to being around a lot of other string players and performing in big ensembles. Living outside of a metropolitan area, I find I have to create more of my own performance opportunities and sometimes have to travel far for rehearsals. It’s fun, but definitely a challenge.

Do you make a living through your art?

Yes, I’m on the music faculty at Salisbury University where I do many things as part of my job. In addition to playing concertmaster of the Salisbury Symphony, I teach studio violin and viola as well as music classes, and direct the Salisbury University String Ensemble.

Who is your favorite artist?

Although there are some superb young violinists out there, my favorite is Midori. She has a beautiful sound and technique and her musicianship is really moving. On recordings or in live performance, she always sounds amazing. Offstage though, she is understated and low-key and is really committed to helping develop young talent.

Where in the community can your artwork be seen/heard?

I’ll be playing in the upcoming Salisbury Symphony concert on Saturday. It’s a concert of 18th- and early 19th-century music with harpsichordist Gwen Toth. I’ll be playing the solo part in Lorenzo Zavateri’s Concerto, “Tempesta di Mare,” which depicts a storm at sea.

What do you think the Eastern Shore can do to improve its arts scene?

I think more major arts events would liven up the arts scene here. When I lived in New Orleans, there was always something going on like JazzFest or the Tennessee Williams Literary Festival. These events helped infuse the city with energy and excitement.